Client & Housing ServicesEmergency Shelter

When there's no place else to turn

If you ever find yourself without a home, Action Inc.’s Emergency Homeless Shelter is here to help. We can provide a safe and comfortable place for you to stay while we help you find permanent, affordable housing. Our shelter is open to individuals ages 18 and older.

We know that finding a place to live is often just the first step. We’ll work with you to tackle issues that may have caused you to become homeless. We’ll connect you to resources and services that will help you become more stable and move forward.

PLEASE NOTE: Space at our Emergency Homeless Shelter is limited and beds may not be available. Available beds will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis. From November to April, doors open at 4:30 pm. From May to October, doors open at 5 pm. The shelter is located at 370 Main Street in Gloucester. Please call 978-282-1000 with questions.

Partnerships

We work together with partners throughout our community to provide comprehensive services at our shelter. Our partners at North Shore Community Health/Gloucester Family Health Center provide Healthcare for the Homeless services and Eliot Community Human Services offers on-site mental health counseling at the shelter. Backyard Growers helped us turn the yard into a garden, which produces fresh vegetables for our shelter kitchen. Shelter guests receive bagged lunches that have been generously donated by the Cape Ann Interfaith Commission.

Frequently asked questions

I'm homeless. How can I get a bed at the shelter?

Space at the shelter is limited and beds may not be available. Available beds will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis. From November to April, doors open at 4:30 pm. From May to October, doors open at 5 pm. The shelter is located at 370 Main Street in Gloucester.

Does the shelter serve meals?

The shelter serves hot meals every night for shelter guests and members of the community. Shelter guests also receive breakfast and a bag lunch that was donated by a local church.

Are there other services available at the shelter?

Can I bring my children?

Unfortunately, our shelter is for homeless adults ages 18 and older. If you are seeking shelter for yourself and your children, contact the Department of Transitional Assistance’s North Shore Office at 978-825-7300 or visit the DTA office at 45 Congress Street, Suite 4120 in Salem.

Can I donate clothes, toiletries, or household goods to the shelter?

Yes. Donations can be brought to the shelter (370 Main Street in Gloucester) after 5 pm.